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Physical Abuse
Physical abuse is physical violence that causes death, injury, disability, fear,
and/or pain.
Who Are the Usual Perpetrators of Physical Abuse?
Perpetrators typically are friends or family members, especially if they are
caregivers, unmarried, have a history of violence, or are unemployed…although
perpetrators come from many possible sources. Physical abuse among spouses is
covered in our Specialties section under Domestic Violence. Substance Abuse or
Alcohol Abuse also are frequent contributors to this problem.
Who Are the Usual Victims?
Seniors, spouses (especially women in volatile relationships), children.
Indicators
It is important to look for patterns…or explanations by either perpetrator or
victim that don’t “add up”; e.g.,
- Burns, including those from appliances or water
- Cuts or abrasions looking like they were caused by rope
- Internal injuries
- Bruising to both arms (indicating restraint or violent
shaking), especially if the bruises encircle the limbs
- Bruising to both legs (possible sexual abuse)
- Multicolored bruises (indicating there has been more than
one assault over time)
- Improperly healed wounds or broken bones
- Suspicious hair or tooth loss
The indicators above are especially telling if different
family members provide diverse explanations; if there are numerous injuries;
if there is an inordinate delay in seeking medical attention; or if there is
a history of injury; or if different medical facilities are approached over
time.
It is extremely important to bring suspicious indicators to the attention of
authorities right away because assaults of this nature tend to become more
violent over time. Also, if the victim is a child, it is important to
investigate any suspicious injuries regardless of the victim’s self-report:
Children often protect their abusers out of love or fear. |
